HB505 Alabama 2010 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Gerald H. AllenSenator

Republican

Co-Sponsors

Steve McMillanBarry Mask

Session

Regular Session 2010

Title

Private toll roads and bridges, Public Service Commission to regulate rates

Summary

HB505 would require the Public Service Commission to approve toll rates charged by private toll roads and bridges, using a utility-style rate-setting process.

What This Bill Does

Under current law, private tolls are not regulated. If enacted, the Public Service Commission would set and approve tolls charged by private operators of toll roads or bridges. The PSC would apply its normal utility regulation process and could consider the average returns it allows for utilities when deciding what is a fair rate of return. The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval (or becoming law otherwise).

Who It Affects

• Private toll road or toll bridge operators: must obtain approval from the Public Service Commission for toll rates and use the PSC's rate-setting process.
• Drivers and other users of private toll roads/bridges: tolls would be set by the PSC, potentially changing the price they pay.

Key Provisions

• Toll amounts charged by private toll road or bridge operators shall be subject to approval by the Public Service Commission.
• The PSC shall determine toll amounts using the same process it follows in regulating utilities.
• In determining a fair rate of return, the PSC may consider the average rates of return it allows for utilities.
• Effective date: the act becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and Governor approval, or its otherwise becoming law.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 25, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Toll Roads and Bridges